CUPRIC ETHYLENEDIAMINE is a purple liquid with an ammoniacal odor. It is used to dissolve cellulose products to give a cuprammonium-type solution. Superoxide ion is generated as an intermediate at the first reaction step between CUPRIC ETHYLENEDIAMINE and H2O2. DNA strand scission may be caused by hydroxyl radicals generated from the reaction of CUPRIC ETHYLENEDIAMINE with biological reductants under aerobic conditions. Since ascorbic acid, is present in living cells, CUPRIC ETHYLENEDIAMINE may be capable of initiating DNA damage in the presence of this reductant. Inhalation of vapor CUPRIC ETHYLENEDIAMINE irritates mucous membrane and may cause asthma. Liquid causes severe irritation of eyes and possible corneal injury. Contact with skin causes irritation. Ingestion causes irritation of mouth and stomach.